BALS Backyard
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BALS Backyard
BALS Backyard is a Last Person Standing race held at Westminster Park in Rock Hill, SC, organized by BALS (Be Active. Live Spontaneous.) Racing. The event uses a single loop through the park that participants repeat until only one runner remains.
The loop measures 4.167 miles with approximately 440 feet of elevation gain and loss per loop. Day and night loops follow the same course. The venue includes a large pavilion, restrooms, playground areas, acres of open fields, an 18-hole frisbee disc golf course hosting the National Collegiate Championships, and a river where fishing is allowed with a license.
Race format and rules require runners to start each loop from a corral when a bell signals the start. Runners must be in the corral at the start signal to continue. Runners may not receive aid from crew while on course and must return any items taken from the corral; discarding items or receiving prohibited aid results in immediate disqualification. Runners who do not complete a loop within 60 minutes are recorded as DNF. The final remaining runner must complete one additional loop to be declared the winner.
Logistics note that 12'x12' crew/camp spots are allocated in registration order. One aid station near the pavilion will offer water, Just Ingredients electrolytes, minimal organic snacks, and some homemade organic items. Swag includes BALS logo merchandise, a sticker, and sample electrolytes; finishers receive a small commemorative item and a BALS Backyard sticker. Participants who reach 50K (eight loops) receive a pin.
New for 2026: a 15% military discount, the BALS Foundation (10% of race profits directed to provide organic food to families in need), and a rebrand of BALS Athletic Wear. The event does not offer refunds under normal circumstances, though transfers and a one-year pregnancy deferral are available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
